Traveling with Your Dog this Summer? Be Prepared with this Travel-Ready First Aid Gear
Pre-Planning for Summer Travel
Now that it’s the new year, you might be starting to plan your next big family trip. Whether your summer dreams include visiting new cities, buying tickets for music festivals, or weekend-after-weekend of fishing and hiking, if you're including your dog, they can be the world's best travel companion. However, as they're leading you on an urban adventure or starring in your annual camp-out, keep in mind that new environments can sometimes bring elevated risks. This makes trip-planning a good time to brush up on the types of first-aid that will make your expedition stress-free.
When to Begin
By the time you're packing your suitcases and stashing extra treats for the drive, your to-do list is probably already full. Blocking out some time in January to prep for your dog's summertime safety will mean one less item for you to worry about in July.
Basic Training
The American Red Cross offers an online training course that's just for pets (dogs and cats). The class is short (thirty-five minutes) and the cost is minimal (twenty-five dollars). If you're planning your first-ever expedition with your dog, completing this course may help you feel more self-assured. Enroll any time at redcross.org.
Seeking Expert Guidance
Though all dog lovers are alert to general risks, (being on the lookout for foods that are toxic for dogs like chocolate and grapes for example), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) urges dog owners to be prepared for when our own training isn't enough. One of the best ways to keep your pet safe is to make sure expert advice is at your fingertips. They suggest storing the following numbers in your phone before you depart on any vacations:
Your vet's contact info (sharing this with your travel partners is always a good idea, too).
The National Animal Poison Control Hotline (888-426-4235).
The address of a 24-hour emergency vet convenient to your destination.
What to Do When You Are the Expert Help
If you run into a simple injury, you may be able treat your dog on your own, as long as you've packed an updated emergency bag. Because pets have unique medical needs, carrying a first aid pack that's kitted-out just for them can bring peace of mind, even if you never end up needing it.
Car-Ready Safety
L.L. Bean offers a comprehensive pack that can handle anything from helping your dog swallow pills to wound closures and field dressings, and it will fit nicely in your car. (We recommend throwing in a Tick Tornado for good measure.)
Best Kit for a Backpack or Carry-On
However you’re traveling, consider adding one of these compact essentials to your rucksack or suitcase, which includes (among all the usual wound-care items) a backup leash, in case you lose yours, or if you happen across a lone pup in need of help.
For the Worrier
We hope you’ll never need this item, but if you’re the sort who likes to be really prepared, this compact foldaway dog sling from Ruffwear will help get you and your pet out of a tough situation, when find yourself a long way away from the nearest vet’s office.
Make Memories
However you plan to prep, make sure to include your dog in the travelogue. Though most scientists agree that dogs can't recognize themselves in photographs, you'll appreciate the mementos of your best friend's wildest adventures, and they’ll appreciate that you’re ready to help them when they need it most.
